The 10km race, which takes place on August 16, will start inside the ExCeL exhibition centre in Custom House with participants facing a quick fire barrage of obstacles before they head out on to the dockside.

From there, they will run west towards the Emirates Air Line, tackling more obstacles as they go. This short run will provide a good warm-up ahead of the first dip in to the water. Participants will then enter the Royal Victoria Dock via a water jump which will be followed by a short swim and then an energy sapping, thigh deep wade on to an urban beach.

Back on dry land they will then head east with a mixture of jumping, swimming and wading required, before the running kicks in again to lead them on to the kayak section. From there it’s homeward bound, but as it’s a Rat Race event it won’t be that simple… participants will be faced by more challenges and a few surprises before they cross the finish line.

This will include the centrepiece obstacle of the event - a towering confidence jump, plummeting them 20 feet into the water below.

Jim Mee, Rat Race MD and creator of The River Rat Race, said: “We’re looking forward to showcasing The River Rat Race event in Docklands and are delighted to be teaming up with Shelter to help raise as much money for the charity as possible.”

The River Rat Race is set to raise thousands of pounds to fund Shelter’s work helping people facing bad housing and homelessness.

Campbell Robb, Shelter’s chief executive said: “With so many people in England fighting to keep a roof over their heads, this challenge will be an amazing opportunity for people to get fit and test their endurance, as well as helping us provide a lifeline to families up and down the country – and that makes everyone a winner.”

Entry starts from £48, with a minimum of £10 from each entry going to Shelter.

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